British European Airways BEA gilt metal hat badge

A scarce original circa 1950's 'British European Airways sew-on hat badge'; gilt metal convex example bearing 'BEA' logo within a laurel wreath surmounted by an 'Astral Crown', applied to black felt backing by four pairs of blades, the reverse with stiffened black hessian lining. Very good used condition, gilt finish remains bright, an excellent example.Height approx 58mm.'British European Airways' was formed in 1946, BEA and BOAC merged in 1974 to become British Airways.